Stop Digital Gaslighting: Decoding the Narcissist’s Texting Pattern Individuals with narcissistic traits often display specific texting habits that mirror their personality characteristics and communication style. Let’s explore some commonly observed text behaviors linked to narcissism: If you want to learn how to protect yourself from false accusations, visit Coping With a Smear Campaign Post-Estrangement by Peg…

We often assume our partners know we appreciate them. But in long-term relationships, positive feelings can become invisible. Radical gratitude isn’t just a fleeting feeling; it’s the conscious, daily practice of demonstrating appreciation for the small, positive actions that sustain your connection. Dr. John Gottman’s research shows that happy couples maintain a 5:1 ratio of…

ith an estimated 950,000 predators that can be online at any given time, shouldn’t you be learning more about how to protect your children?  Historically, predators are typically older males, but in recent years and with the increased access of online platforms, we are starting to see younger and younger men target our children.  Predators…

A childhood trauma response that leads to estranging family and ourselves. Growing up in an unstable, abusive, or chaotic home is one of the risk factors for estrangement. In these homes, love is conditional, authenticity is not valued, and children often feel unsafe. To survive an unpredictable environment, children learn to “read the room.” They take the…

Despite how natural friendship can feel, people rarely stop to analyze it. How do you know when someone will make a good friend? When is it time to move on from a friendship? Oftentimes, people rely on gut intuitions to answer these kinds of questions. In psychology research, there’s no universally accepted definition of a…

Beginning July 16, 2022, people struggling with mental health crises can now call 988, a new number focused on providing lifesaving suicide prevention and crisis services. But 988 is not just a shorter, easier-to-remember replacement for the current suicide hotline. Congress and the Federal Communications Commission also established the 988 Lifeline to address longstanding concerns in mental…

From the breakup of a relationship to losing a loved one, people are often told to find “closure” after traumatic things happen. But what is closure? And should it really be the goal for individuals seeking relief or healing, even in these traumatic times of global pandemic, war in Ukraine and mass shootings in the U.S.? Closure is an elusive concept….

Depression can feel paralyzing, making it hard to get out of bed and leaving you drained of motivation. To combat this, start small. Set achievable goals such as sitting up, getting dressed in regular clothes, or taking a short walk. Practice self-compassion and gently reintroduce activities you enjoy, even in short bursts. Why You Feel…